Using electrochemical hydrogen compressor in reverse

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the feasibility of using electrochemical hydrogen compressors (EHCs) in reverse to generate voltage from a pressure difference, exploring its potential as a means of energy storage. Participants examine the effectiveness of this approach compared to existing power storage systems.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that it is theoretically possible to run an electrochemical hydrogen compressor in reverse to generate voltage from a pressure difference.
  • Others question whether this method would be more effective than established power storage systems.
  • One participant suggests that if the system could operate in reverse, its charge-discharge efficiency might be around 90%, based on a compression efficiency of 95% mentioned by FuelCell Energy.
  • Another participant compares this potential efficiency to that of lithium-ion batteries, which have an efficiency range of 80-90%, but expresses uncertainty about calculating the energy density of the proposed system.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the viability and effectiveness of using EHCs in reverse for energy storage, indicating that multiple competing perspectives remain without a consensus.

Contextual Notes

There is uncertainty regarding the calculations for energy density and the overall effectiveness of this method compared to other storage systems. Assumptions about efficiency and operational parameters are not fully resolved.

cyberdiver
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Electrochemical hydrogen compressors (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrochemical_hydrogen_compressor) basically convert an electrical potential difference into a pressure difference. Would it be possible to run one of these in reverse, i.e. using a pressure difference to create a voltage? If it would, would it be a viable means of energy storage?

There's an interesting presentation on the capabilities of EHCs by FuelCell Energy here: https://www.hydrogen.energy.gov/pdfs/review12/pd048_lipp_2012_o.pdf
 
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It sounds possible, but would it be any more effective than other well known power storage systems?
 
cyberdiver said:
Would it be possible to run one of these in reverse, i.e. using a pressure difference to create a voltage?
Yes.

cyberdiver said:
If it would, would it be a viable means of energy storage?
No more so than any other method.
 
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rootone said:
It sounds possible, but would it be any more effective than other well known power storage systems?
According to FuelCell Energy, compression (I'm assuming wallplug) efficiency is 95%, so charge-discharge efficiency should be ~90%? Lithium ion batteries get 80-90% by comparison. I'm not exactly sure how to go about calculating the energy density of such a system just yet.
 

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